At some point in our lives, we have all been a caregiver for someone who has been sick.  Maybe it's been our child who is down for the count with strep throat.  Maybe it's our spouse who is recovering from surgery.  Or maybe it's an elderly parent facing a life changing medical crisis.  When your loved one was sick, do you remember the feeling that nothing else mattered except your loved one getting well?  How much attention did you pay to your own health or physical needs during that time?  It's likely that you pushed your own needs to the back burner and focused completely on your loved one.  As caregivers, all too often we neglect our own needs until we are in danger of becoming sick ourselves.  So how do we prevent what is referred to as "caregiver burnout"?  Here are some tips to staying healthy while providing great care for your loved one:

• Accept Help.  Remember those times when your friends asked what they could do to help?  Don't hesitate to tell them!  Your friends want to help, but often don't know what to do, so be ready with suggestions when they ask.  It could be as simple as running to the grocery store or bringing dinner over.
• Don't give in to guilt.  Understand that no one is a perfect caregiver.  You are doing the best you can at any given time.  Forget about the housekeeping, or having the perfect meal on the table.  It's okay not to dust, and it's okay to order take-out for dinner.  Don't beat yourself up over not being able to do everything alone.
• Join a support group.  A support group can be a great source of encouragement and advice from others in a similar situation.  Just hearing from others who are experiencing the same feelings, and at times frustrations, may be enough to lift your spirits.
• Commit to staying healthy.  Find time to exercise daily, even if it's simply taking a fifteen minute walk.  Get a good night's sleep and eat a healthy, balanced diet.  See your doctor for regular checkups and mention that you are a caregiver for your loved one..  He may have some suggestions that will help you stay healthy as a caregiver.
• Consider respite care.  We usually can't imagine anyone else providing care for our loved one, but at times, we all need a break.  This is completely normal and healthy and is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your loved one.  Taking advantage of a respite care program will help to keep you energized to continue providing the care that your loved one needs.

Many caregivers fall into the trap of believing that they have to do everything alone.  Don't make that mistake.  Stay healthy by taking advantage of the many resources and assistance that's available.  To get started, contact your local Area Agency on Aging or your local Senior Citizen's Center.  If you don't take care of yourself, you eventually won't be able to take care of your loved one.

Remember, every day, families just like yours and mine are facing a health care crisis with a loved one.  The support and education you need to navigate the aging journey is available at your finger tips from expert care professionals at Lutheran Homes of Michigan.  For more information on dealing with a life changing issue with your parents or a loved one, contact a care representative at Lutheran Homes of Michigan by calling 989-652-3470 or by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

As a caregiver, what are some successful tips that you use to prevent burnout and relieve stress?

Resources

"Caregiver Stress: Tips for Taking Care of Yourself". www.mayoclinic.com

"Managing Stress: Tips for the Caregiver".  www.assets.aarp.org

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